Have you ever considered taking a seaweed supplement? You may be surprised to learn that these supplements are not only rich in nutrients, but they offer numerous health benefits as well.
Seaweed is nothing but an alga that grows in the sea. It is known to be a food source for ocean life and can be found in several colors ranges red, green, brown, and even black.
It is an extremely versatile edible source that is used in several dishes, from sushi rolls, soups and stews, salads, and even smoothies.
Seaweed is not only versatile in taste, but it is also highly nutritious. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that offer a host of health benefits.
Nutrients
Some of the key nutrients found in seaweed include:
1) Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for our body. It helps to keep the eyes and skin healthy.
2) Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system.
3) Vitamin E
Another antioxidant that aids in protecting cells from damage is Vitamin E.
4) Iodine
Iodine is important for thyroid function, and seaweed is its great source.
5) Magnesium
Magnesium is known to be essential for energy production and metabolism. Seaweed also provides a good intake of magnesium.
6) Potassium
People with blood pressure are advised to consume potassium-rich dishes. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure, hence the intake of seaweed.
What’s more, seaweed is an excellent source of fiber. In fact, just one gram of seaweed contains around 2.6 grams of fiber.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of seaweed have been well-documented. Here are some science-backed benefits of this superfood:
- May Help Boost Thyroid Function
Seaweed is rich in iodine, a mineral that is essential for thyroid function. Thyroid hormone plays a role in virtually every cell and tissue in the body and helps to regulate metabolism. Iodine deficiency leads to hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by low levels of thyroid hormone, which can cause fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
Seaweed is a great source of iodine. In fact, just 1 gram of seaweed contains about 16% of the RDI for iodine. While severe iodine deficiency is rare in developed countries, mild to moderate iodine deficiency is still common. And seaweed helps solve the problem.
- May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Seaweed may help to lower blood sugar levels. One study showed that alginate, a type of fiber found in seaweed, can slow the absorption of sugar from the gut.
Another study revealed that participants who took a seaweed extract had lower blood sugar levels after eating a high-carb meal.
- May Aid Weight Loss
Seaweed may also aid weight loss. One study revealed that participants who took a seaweed supplement lost more weight and body fat than those who didn’t take the supplement.
What’s more, another study proved that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced appetite and ate fewer calories.
- May Help Reduce Inflammation
Seaweed may help to reduce inflammation. One study disclosed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation.
What’s more, another study revealed that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- May Boost Heart Health
Seaweed may also boost heart health. One study showed that alginate, a type of fiber found in seaweed, can reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Another study revealed that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced blood pressure. Hence, boosts heart health.
- May Help Fight Cancer
Seaweed may also help fight cancer. One study showed that a type of seaweed called “carrageenan” can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells.
Another study found that a compound found in seaweed called “fucoidan” can kill breast cancer cells.
- May Promote Gut Health
Seaweed may also promote gut health. One study proved that participants who took a seaweed supplement had increased levels of good bacteria in their gut.
What’s more, another study proved that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
- May Help Detoxify The Body
Seaweed may also help detoxify the body. One study revealed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced levels of mercury and other toxins in their bodies.
- May Boost Brain Health
Seaweed may also boost brain health. One study proved that participants who took a seaweed extract had improved cognitive function.
What’s more, another study found that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
- May Help Reduce Wrinkles And Fine Lines
Seaweed may also help reduce wrinkles and fine lines. One study revealed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced wrinkles and fine lines.
- May Help Reduce The Risk Of Stroke
Seaweed may also help reduce the risk of stroke. One study proved that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced levels of homocysteine, a compound that has been linked to an increased risk of stroke.
- May Have Anti-Aging Effects
Seaweed may also have anti-aging effects. One study revealed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had improved skin elasticity.
What’s more, another study resulted that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced DNA damage.
- May Help Reduce Stress
Seaweed may also help reduce stress. One study revealed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
- May Help Improve Joint Health
Seaweed may also help improve joint health. One study disclosed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced levels of inflammatory markers in their blood.
Another study revealed that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced symptoms of arthritis.
- Seaweed Is Low In Calories And Fat
Seaweed is quite low in calories and fat. One study revealed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had reduced calorie intake.
What’s more, another study resulted that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced body fat.
- Seaweed Is Rich In Antioxidants
Seaweed is also rich in antioxidants. One study disclosed that participants who took a seaweed supplement had increased levels of antioxidants in their bodies.
Another study revealed that participants who took a seaweed extract had reduced oxidative stress.
The benefits are numerous, and it is a great source of nutrients. Try it and see how it can help improve your health!
Some Recipes To Try With Seaweed
1) Seaweed Salad
Ingredients:
-1/2 cup dried seaweed
-1/4 cup white vinegar
-1/4 cup soy sauce
-1 tablespoon sugar
-1 teaspoon sesame oil
-3 green onions, thinly sliced
-1 carrot, shredded
Instructions:
1) Soak seaweed in water for about 10 minutes.
2) In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil.
3) Drain the seaweed and add to the bowl with the dressing.
4) Add green onion and carrots. Toss to combine. Serve immediately or chilled.
2) Sushi Rolls With Seaweed
Ingredients:
-6 sheets nori (dried seaweed)
-1 cup sushi rice
-1/4 cup rice vinegar
-1 tablespoon sugar
-1 teaspoon salt
-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
-3 cups fillings of your choice (cucumber, avocado, radish, carrot, etc.)
Instructions:
1) Cook sushi rice based on package instructions.
2) In a bowl, whisk vinegar, sugar, and salt. Pour over cooked rice and mix well.
3) Place a sheet of nori over a bamboo sushi mat. Spread 1/2 cup of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border.
4) Arrange fillings in the center of the rice. Roll up tightly, using the bamboo mat to help.
5) Slice into 8 pieces and serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger (if desired).
3) Seaweed Soup
Ingredients:
-1/4 cup dried seaweed
-6 cups water
-1/2 onion, chopped
-2 garlic cloves, minced
-1 tablespoon soy sauce
-1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1) Soak seaweed in water for about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2) In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add onions and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes.
3) Add seaweed and cook for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Serve hot or cold.
4) Roasted Seaweed
Ingredients:
-1/4 cup dried seaweed
-1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2) Soak seaweed in water for 10 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
3) Place seaweed on a baking sheet and drizzle with sesame oil. Toss to coat.
4) Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until crisp. Remove from oven and cool before serving.
5) Seaweed Smoothie
Ingredients:
-1/4 cup dried seaweed
-1 cup water
-1 banana, frozen
-1 cup spinach
-1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1) Soak seaweed in water for about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2) In a blender, combine seaweed, water, banana, spinach, and honey. Blend until smooth. Serve immediately.
Harmful Effects Of Seaweed
There are some studies that revealed that consuming large amounts of seaweed can be harmful.
For example,
1) Thyroid problems
Consuming large amounts of seaweed can also lead to thyroid problems. This is because seaweed consists of high levels of iodine. Iodine is vital for the thyroid gland to function properly, but too much iodine can cause the gland to become overactive and produce too much hormone. This can lead to symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, and anxiety.
2) Digestive issues
Some people may also experience digestive issues after eating seaweed. This is because seaweed is a rich source of fiber. Fiber is important for digestion, but too much fiber can cause bloating gas and diarrhea.
3) Allergies
Some people may also be allergic to seaweed. Symptoms of an allergy include hives, itching, and difficulty breathing. If you go through any of these symptoms after eating seaweed, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
4) Drug interactions
Seaweed can also interact with some medications. For example, seaweed can increase the absorption of lithium, a medication used to treat bipolar disorder. This can lead to lithium toxicity, which can be fatal. Seaweed can also interact with blood thinners and blood pressure medications. Hence, it is beneficial to consult a doctor before taking any supplements containing seaweed.
So, if you’re thinking about adding seaweed supplements to your diet, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional first.
